What measures is the Welsh Government taking to ensure unexploded ordnance disposal is not harmful to the marine environment?
The detonation of unexploded ordnance (UXO) related to marine developments is a regulatory matter for the relevant decision-makers, for example, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) with respect to marine licensing.
In Wales, the marine licensing process is one of the main tools for the sustainable management of Welsh waters, ensuring ecosystems are resilient and habitats and species of national and international importance are protected. When considering an application for a marine licence which may involve the detonation of UXOs, NRW carefully considers potential impacts to the marine environment, including marine mammals, and also to human health and other sea users before issuing a licence. A licence would include any necessary mitigation measures to minimise impacts.
NRW has endorsed and applies the following guidance: JNCC guidelines for minimising the risk of disturbance and injury to marine mammals whilst using explosives | JNCC Resource Hub